Cibolo secures water agreement for future development

By David DeKunder, Staff Writer :
June 4, 2013

Schertz will provide water and sewer services to a future Cibolo development site as part of a recent agreement between the two cities.

The accord will allow Cibolo to tie into Schertz's existing water and sewer lines for a 116-acre tract between Corridor Loop and Wiederstein Road, once it is developed.

The Schertz and Cibolo City Councils each signed off on the pact, with Schertz leaders approving it May 14 and Cibolo, May 28.

Cibolo City Manager Robert Herrera said the agreement will give the city a better chance of luring a developer to the 116-acre site adjacent to Interstate 35.

“It's very important for future development,” Herrera said. “It represents the only piece of property within the city limits of Cibolo that abuts I-35. It's a fine piece of property that will ultimately be developed.”

Herrera said it would not have been cost-effective for Cibolo to handle the site's water and sewer infrastructure by itself.

Schertz Executive Director Johnny Bierschwale added Schertz has existing water lines near the 116-acre site along I-35 and sewer lines south of the site.

“That's why it makes sense for the Cibolo and Schertz to work together because it benefits them and the city of Schertz,” Bierschwale said. “It will help Cibolo with their tax base because they will be able to develop it.”

Bierschwale said the agreement benefits Schertz because Cibolo will become its water customer.

Herrera said any development at the site will help cover the cost of putting in water and sewer infrastructure. “Neither city will be out any funds,” Herrera said. “Any development there would reimburse both cities. Cibolo would reimburse Schertz for any infrastructure and water usage for the property.”

The lack of available water and sewer services, Liparoto said, has been a detriment in the city's efforts to develop the site.

“A few years ago we missed an opportunity for a $200 million development up there because we didn't have the infrastructure in place,” Liparoto said. “So, when that opportunity comes along again, we will be ready.”